Working with the 2003 Rugby World Cup Champions, we are supporting retired rugby professionals to navigate life after the end of their playing career. We will empower former professional players by providing programmes which offer support with mental health, overall wellbeing and career development.
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Research has shown that 62% of retired rugby professionals have suffered from mental health problems following the end of their playing careers. These problems arise from a number of factors including the loss of their primary social support network (for some this network has been in place for 20+ years), financial worries following the loss of a regular income, feeling a loss of identity and purpose and managing the impact that long-term physical injuries can have.
We want to change this narrative and will work with the Champions 2003 team to create programmes to provide them with the skills to lead healthy, fulfilling and sustainable futures beyond the game. We will raise awareness of and support players with developing their life skills and exploring future pathways. We will ensure we support every step of their transition journey including career readiness, mentoring programmes and access to clinical psychotherapists for those who might be struggling.
